Student-centered Learning Research Articles

Case-based learning in undergraduate orthodontic education: A cross sectional study

Introduction Student centric learning approaches have been reported to be effective in introducing higher order cognitive skills required by the health professionals. However, learners’ perceptions must be constructively aligned with new learning interventions to achieve a positive impact on their learning. The aim of this study was to explore the learning experiences of undergraduate dental students with case-based learning in orthodontics. Methods A case-based learning model was introduced on orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning for final year students on a Bachelor of Dentistry programme toward the end of their academic year. A survey was conducted to explore the perceptions and experiences of the participants. The research instrument was based on a previously validated questionnaire and included information on demographics and consisted of 12 items aimed at evaluating the benefits and challenges of cased based learning. Results All 67 students in the final-year cohort participated in study, yielding a response rate of 100 percent. Participants across the board perceived CBL to be an effective strategy to learn the subject content and helpful in improving the students’ skills in orthodontic diagnosis, treatment planning and team-working. CBL did not pose any significant challenges or barriers to student learning. Conclusion Participants reported high acceptance of CBL in orthodontic teaching and learning and a positive impact on their educational experiences. CBL was perceived to be an appropriate strategy to enhance the diagnostic, treatment planning and team-working skills of dental students.

AI’s pivotal impact on redefining stakeholder roles and their interactions in medical education and health care

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize medical training, diagnostics, treatment planning, and healthcare delivery while also bringing challenges such as data privacy, the risk of technological overreliance, and the preservation of critical thinking. This manuscript explores the impact of AI and Machine Learning (ML) on healthcare interactions, focusing on faculty, students, clinicians, and patients. AI and ML's early inclusion in the medical curriculum will support student-centered learning; however, all stakeholders will require specialized training to bridge the gap between medical practice and technological innovation. This underscores the importance of education in the ethical and responsible use of AI and emphasizing collaboration to maximize its benefits. This manuscript calls for a re-evaluation of interpersonal relationships within healthcare to improve the overall quality of care and safeguard the welfare of all stakeholders by leveraging AI's strengths and managing its risks.

Student- Centered Learning, Teaching and Assessment – Student Opinion

Objective: The purpose of this study is to determine Technical' subjective perceptions of the extent to which learning, teaching and assessment at the university are student-centered. Theoretical Framework: The study draws on Part 1.3 of the Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG) - Student-centered learning, teaching and assessment and the results of an empirical study regarding students' subjective perceptions of the implementation of this standard. Method: The methodology adopted for this study comprises a review of research related to the indicators that students use when assessing the degree to which learning is oriented to them and A Tool for Measuring Students' Opinions about the Degree in Which Learning and Teaching are Oriented to Student, created in 2021 at the Department of Social and Legal Sciences of the Technical University of Varna to assess the implementation of Part 1.3 of the Quality Standards for Higher Education. Research Implications: The research conducted shows that the newly developed tool can help in understanding the extent to which learning, teaching and assessment have been student centered. The application of the questionnaire can provide valuable insights into students' subjective perceptions as well as the areas where the implementation of ESG guidelines needs to be improved. Originality/Value: We believe that the main contribution of this study is in providing evidence for the use of a questionnaire directly aimed at assessing and self-assessing the extent to which ESG standards and guidelines relating to learning and teaching are being met.

Readiness and efforts of civics teachers in developing literacy and numeracy skills

This research aimed to assess the readiness and efforts of civics teachers in developing literacy and numeracy skills. For data collection, qualitative methods including surveys and interviews, were employed. A total of 38 civics teachers from junior high schools in Pacitan Regency, Indonesia were selected based on gender, teaching experience, and certification. The data was analyzed using both qualitative narrative and quantitative descriptive analysis, employing percentages. The results showed that civics teachers demonstrated moderate proficiency in literacy skills, while their numeracy abilities were considered sufficient. In addition, teachers exhibited a greater readiness for literacy-oriented learning compared to numeracy. The efforts made by teachers encompassed four aspects, namely i) collaborating with colleagues and implementing student-centered collaborative learning, ii) developing a culture of literacy and numeracy through training and discussions, iii) seeking out learning resources and media that supported literacy and numeracy, and iv) promoting reading, annotating texts, and analyzing numeracy-related readings.

The development of elema 2.0 for the invertebrate zoology course on the phylum arthropoda topic

Currently, technology has become an inseparable part of education and learning. Various digital learning tools have been developed and widely used in the classroom. eLEMA (electronic learning materials) was developed as a mobile application that supports learning in the Invertebrate Zoology courses at the Biology Education Program, University of Palangka Raya. At that time, eLEMA was developed to meet the need for electronic learning materials for online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with the rapid development of technology in recent years, eLEMA needs to be developed further for updates. This research aims to develop eLEMA 2.0 for the Invertebrate Zoology course. This study is a research and development (R & D) using Hannafin & Peck development model to develop eLEMA 2.0 for the Invertebrate Zoology course on the Phylum Arthropoda topic. The development product is the eLEMA 2.0 application for lectures on the Phylum Arthropoda topic in the Invertebrate Zoology course with improvements to the user interface and additional features that support participatory learning and student-centered learning. The results of trials and validation show that all pages and content in this application were successfully opened without any disturbing errors. These results indicate that the development product is feasible to be implemented in the classroom.

The Effectiveness of Case Method in Teaching Calculus using Lesson Study Model

This literature review focuses on the effectiveness of the case method in teaching calculus using the lesson study model. It is structured around three key components: lesson planning, lesson implementation, and evaluation of the teaching process. The first section explores how the case method informs the development of lesson plans, emphasizing real-world problems and student-centered learning strategies to enhance conceptual understanding in calculus. The second section analyzes the practical application of these lesson plans, detailing the interaction between instructors and students, the role of collaboration, and adaptive teaching practices. Lastly, the evaluation phase examines how the lesson study model supports reflective teaching, enabling continuous improvement through feedback and analysis of student outcomes, ultimately leading to more effective calculus instruction.

Student-Centered Learning: Some Issues and Recommendations for Its Implementation in a Traditional Curriculum Setting in Health Sciences

This review article discussed the challenges faced during the implementation of active learning methods within the traditional teaching environment at the Complutense University of Madrid. These challenges encompass interactions with colleagues, students, and the classroom itself. It is essential for educators to have confidence that the outcomes achieved through these teaching approaches will not be adversely impacted by the quality assessment system of surveys. The university should adopt a teaching quality assessment framework that differentiates between the instructor’s efficiency and the effectiveness of teaching methods. Students need to recognize the significance of developing critical thinking skills over rote memorization throughout their academic journey and understand the importance of this for their future professional development. Suggestions are also made for improving teamwork in traditional classrooms, which typically follow standard teaching methods.

Influence of Contemporary Philosophical Teaching Approaches on Students’ Learning Performance in Selected Universities in China: Basis for an Enhanced Teaching Program

This study explores the influence of contemporary philosophical teaching approaches on students' learning performance in selected universities in China. The research specifically examines the extent to which philosophical approaches like Perennialism, Essentialism, Progressivism, Reconstructionism, and Behaviorism are manifested among educators and how these approaches impact students' engagement, attitudes, assignment quality, and grades. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study involved a comprehensive survey of university teachers, followed by a quantitative analysis of the data. The results indicate that Progressivism and Reconstructionism are the most prevalent approaches, showing significant correlations with enhanced student engagement and improved learning outcomes. However, Behaviorism demonstrated a notable predictive ability in influencing students' performance through structured reinforcement strategies. The study highlights the importance of integrating diverse teaching methodologies to cater to varying student needs and promote holistic educational development. These findings provide a basis for proposing a more enriched and adaptable teaching program aimed at fostering a more interactive and student-centered learning environment.

English Acquisition using Multiple Intelligences Supported Project-based Learning and ICT: The Role of Cognitive Factors

This paper has explored critical cognitive determinants affecting students’ English learning process in context of blended learning based on information and communication technologies, especially through project-based teaching; it also identifies how these identified cognitive determinants contribute to the formation of students’ cognitive profiles. Moreover, it has help designed a student-centred ICT-enabled English language learning/teaching process, and give the impact of blended learning based on information and communication technologies on student learning outcomes. In this paper, qualitative method was used to answer the research questions. The data used in this study are mainly derived from interviews of teachers and students in Chinese bilingual schools. The results identified several cognitive factors influenced students’ learning outcomes in a blended learning environment, such as attention, memory, metacognition, and motivation. Moreover, the study identified four distinct cognitive profiles based on learner characteristics, covering attentive learner, memory-reliant learner, metacognitive learner, and motivated learner. Attentive learners benefit from highly interactive and graphical interfaces, such as virtual reality simulations or instantaneous quizzes. Results also indicate that co-design approach involving teachers and students was pivotal in creating a student-centered learning framework. Effective integration of ICT in education requires continuous professional development, peer mentoring, and access to online resources for teachers. Effective teacher training ensures educators are well-equipped to use ICT tools to enhance teaching and learning. The results show that employing multimedia elements and providing interactive activities introduced more significant learning experiences while enhancing language retention and learning. The outcome of project-based learning activities enhanced the problem-solving and analytical skills of the students.

The Effect of PJBL and IBL on the Learning Independence of Vocational School Students

The influence of Project Based Learning (PJBL) and Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) learning models on students' learning independence at SMK Solo. PJBL and IBL were chosen as innovative and student-centred learning models, focusing on increasing students' independence and active involvement in the learning process. Based on the results of data analysis, it was found that PJBL provided a significant increase in student independence, with an average pre-test score of 44.01, increasing to 70.38 in the post-test. Meanwhile, students who took IBL experienced an increase from 46.85 to 59.77. The t-test showed a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test with a significance value of 0.000 (sig <0.05), indicating that both learning models contributed positively to increasing student independence. The results of the multivariate analysis supported this finding, with an F value of 3.052 and a significance of 0.018 (sig <0.05), indicating that PJBL was more effective than IBL in increasing independence. However, in the aspect of student creativity, no significant difference was found between the two models, with a significance value of 0.157 (sig > 0.05). In conclusion, PJBL is superior in encouraging student independence compared to IBL, and the results of this study provide important recommendations for educators to prioritize PJBL in the context of learning that focuses on developing student independence in vocational schools.

Student-led discussions of landmark discovery articles: a foothold in teaching primary virology literature.

Introducing students to primary scientific literature is essential for establishing scientific literacy; however, students can feel overwhelmed by the amount of information within a research article. In our virology discussion courses, we address this issue by creating a student-centered and active learning environment. Students present and guide discussions on the rationales, background, methods, results, and conclusions from research literature in class. This approach has been applied in both undergraduate and graduate settings for students studying microbiology, with different expectations and criteria between the two groups. Student evaluations collected from three semesters were positive toward the teaching methods. Students praised the inclusion of "landmark discovery" articles, which examined paradigm-shifting concepts in virology. Undergraduates expressed their increased confidence in comprehending scientific literature and highlighted the impact of group work. In a critique of the course, students suggested more variety in the topics covered and inclusion of recent publications. Overall, our enhanced approach and methods improved student experiences with primary scientific literature and promoted student learning.

Exploring the Perception of the Impact of Personal Learning Environments (PLEs) in the Generative AI Era in Engineering Education

Objective: This study explores students' perceptions of using Personal Learning Environments (PLEs) in the era of generative artificial intelligence as a learning resource in higher education. The specific objectives are: 1) to determine the current tools that students incorporate into their PLEs and 2) to identify students' perceptions of the use of PLEs for lifelong learning. Theoretical Framework: UNESCO and other institutions recognize lifelong learning as an essential competency for personal and professional development. Personal Learning Environments (PLEs) are considered effective tools for promoting self-directed learning, allowing students to manage their learning processes, especially with the advent of generative artificial intelligence technologies. Method: A qualitative study was conducted with 207 first-semester engineering students from a public university in Peru. Participants were introduced to a training program to develop their PLEs using various digital tools, including generative AI tools such as ChatGPT DALL-E. The instrument used to evaluate students' perceptions was the MUSIC model (Jones, 2009), which focuses on empowerment and usefulness. Results: The results indicate that more than 80% of the students positively perceive PLEs, considering them valuable and empowering tools for achieving their learning objectives. Integrating generative AI tools into PLEs is notable, as it provides a dynamic and personalized learning experience. Most students found PLEs helpful for their future and relevant for promoting lifelong learning skills. Research Implications: The research suggests that PLEs, especially when integrated with generative AI tools, positively impact self-directed learning and promote collaborative and social learning. These findings can inform the development of educational programs and policies that encourage using PLEs as a student-centered learning strategy. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the understanding of the role of PLEs in the context of higher education and generative artificial intelligence. It is one of the first studies to examine students' perceptions of using PLEs with generative AI tools, highlighting their potential to enhance learning autonomy and personalization.

A Systematic Approach to Innovative Strategies for Vocal Instruction in Higher Education: Enhancing Student Performance

This study presents a systematic approach to developing innovative strategies for vocal instruction in higher education, focusing on enhancing student performance. Using Huaiyin Normal University as a case study, the research examines current vocal instruction practices within its Music Department, identifying both strengths and areas needing improvement. The study first provides an overview of traditional and contemporary pedagogical approaches, highlighting the importance of student-centered learning and the integration of technology in music education. Data were collected through interviews with vocal instructors and surveys with students to analyze the effectiveness of existing methods and the feedback from those directly involved. Key findings reveal a need for greater incorporation of collaborative learning, multicultural repertoires, and personalized vocal techniques to foster a more engaging and comprehensive learning environment. The study discusses the implications of these findings for higher education in music and compares them with practices at other institutions. It also addresses the challenges faced in implementing innovative strategies and provides practical recommendations for curriculum development. This research contributes to the broader discourse on enhancing vocal education through adaptive, inclusive, and modernized teaching practices.

Enhancing the learning experience by empowering medical students to co-create learning tools and classroom activities.

This study aimed to enhance the learning experience among medical students by empowering them to co-create learning tools and classroom activities. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 10 participants from Year 2 of the new curriculum volunteering to participate in this study. Five were selected based on their diversities and empowered to design learning tools and class activities. Student satisfaction was presented as mean scores. A comparison of self-confidence scores in subjects learned before and after the class was analyzed using the paired t-test. Comparisons of multiple-choice question (MCQ) scores before and after the class between Years 2 (n = 96) and Year 3 of the previous curriculum attending inclass teaching (n = 98) were analyzed using the independent sample t-test. A high level of satisfaction (M=87.5, SD=15.7%) and significant improvements in student self-confidence in subjects learned between before (M=46.4, SD=20.8%) and after (M=82.7, SD=16.9%) the class were noted (t (223) = -23.73, p<.001). Additionally, Year 2 students achieved significantly higher MCQ scores after the class (M=85.6, SD=19.0%) compared with the scores from Year 3 (M=77.3, SD=23.6%) (t (190) = 3.32, p<.001). Empowering medical students to co-create learning tools and class activities could positively enhance their learning experience. The result of this study addressed the importance of student empowerment with well-designed student-centered learning strategies based on their learning environment. Additional qualitative research is required to better understanding the "why" and "how" behind the findings of this study.

The Application of Flipped Classroom Teaching Model in Foreign Language Teaching

The application of the flipped classroom approach in foreign language instruction has drawn significant attention from recent educational studies. This essay provides a comprehensive examination of the advantages, disadvantages, and methods for implementing the flipped classroom concept in foreign language teaching. It analyzes how the flipped classroom model redefines the traditional teaching paradigm by reorganizing the learning environment to favor student-centered and active learning experiences. By synthesizing existing content, it highlights how teachers can maximize in-class time for group projects, conversational activities, and personalized feedback by moving instructional content delivery outside the classroom through pre-recorded lectures, multimedia materials, and interactive online activities. This approach encourages deeper learner engagement and language acquisition. Additionally, this article analyzes the potential advantages of the flipped classroom approach, including improved language proficiency, increased student autonomy in learning, and enhanced critical thinking skills. However, the author also identifies some disadvantages of the flipped classroom model in practical application. For instance, the implementation of the flipped classroom presents a significant challenge to teachers’ professional skills, and issues such as unequal access to resources and technological limitations pose substantial obstacles to the widespread use of the flipped classroom in foreign language instruction.

Teaching and Learning in an AI-powered world

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used, education is undergoing profound transformations, as AI inevitably changes the paradigm of teaching and learning. Teachers have already begun to use AI for student-centred learning, data analysis, or improving assessment through standardized systems provided by AI. Although these new technologies promise efficiency and personalized education, AI is not yet developed enough to truly understand the mechanisms underlying learning. Excessive dependence on technology can reduce the teacher’s role and the importance of human interaction, while certain ethical issues may arise regarding data confidentiality and security. To address these challenges, teachers and decision-makers must carefully integrate AI, emphasizing transparency and ethics, to ensure that technology will indeed have a positive impact on society. This article explores the issues and concerns related to the use of AI in education, also examining the potential disadvantages and fears associated with it and providing an overview of the challenges that teachers face when integrating AI into education.

Interdisciplinary STEM education foundational concepts: Implementation for knowledge creation

Interdisciplinary thinking is essential to understanding and solving real-life problems and requires multiple disciplinary viewpoints. Research into STEM education highlights that it promotes an interdisciplinary learning process integrating science, mathematics, engineering, and mathematics knowledge and skills. However, STEM definitions are varied, and implementation recommendations are scant, resulting in diversity in the development and implementation of the learning process. This study critically analyses the literature to determine the fundamental concepts of STEM education and STEM discipline integration. Our analysis discovers six key components of STEM education, encompassing the integration of discipline, utilization of multiple representations, engagement with realistic and relevant problems, application of the engineering design process, encouragement of active collaboration, and emphasis on student-centered learning approaches. Then, we transform these key components to a practical learning process. The STEM-DTaM (STEM with Design Thinking and Makerspace) learning model consists of seven steps. We then unfold how this proposed learning could facilitate interdisciplinary thinking construction.

Comparison of Problem-based Learning and Didactic Lecture as a Teaching–Learning Method among Undergraduate Medical Students: An Interventional Study

Background Didactic lecture (DL) is a teaching method that has been there for a long time in our educational system, but student involvement is minimal. Problem-based learning (PBL) differs in that it involves students in the learning process. Various skills are learned, such as self-learning, group discussion, communication skills, teamwork and knowledge retention. Critical thinking, analysis and the ability to solve real problems are some benefits of PBL, which can help medical students understand clinical scenarios and analyse, interpret and come up with possible solutions based on sound knowledge. Thus, there is a need to assess the effectiveness of PBL in recall, interpretation and problem-solving skills as compared to the traditional lecture method, as there are very few Indian studies related to PBL in Indian medical students. Materials and Methods A non-randomised interventional study was carried out in the Department of Pharmacology at East Point Medical College, Bengaluru. Groups A and B, each with 60 medical students, participated in PBL and DL for either of the two competencies (myocardial infarction and iron deficiency anaemia). After the completion of the DL and PBL sessions, 20 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) were given to the students. The effectiveness of the teaching method was determined by comparing the mean scores of MCQs of both groups. Results The group scores were compared using an independent sample t-test and expressed as mean ± standard deviation. The total mean score of PBL for the topic myocardial infarction (11.00 ± 2.64, p value = .001) was statistically significant compared with the total mean score in the DL group (9.38 ± 2.52), and the total mean score of PBL for the topic iron deficiency anaemia (15.28 ± 3.53, p value = .001) was significant compared to the total mean score in the DL group (12.98 ± 3.61), respectively. The mean score for recall and problem-solving for the topic of myocardial infarction was statistically significant in the PBL group compared to the DL group. The mean score for recall, interpretation and problem-solving for the topic of iron deficiency anaemia was statistically significant in the PBL group compared with the DL group. Conclusion PBL showed marked improvement in recall, interpretation and problem-solving abilities compared with DL. So, including PBL as a teaching–learning method can promote active and student-centered learning.

Self-regulated learning in secondary school: Students’ self-feedback in a peer observation programme

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is crucial for fostering learner autonomy and lifelong learning skills. The article focuses on observation as a trigger of student self-feedback and self-reflection towards the development of SRL. A student peer observation programme, co-designed and piloted by teachers and researchers in two Portuguese public secondary schools is introduced, including its theoretical and methodological framework, observation scheme, and supporting observation guides. A qualitative study of self-reported effects by participating students was performed with the objectives of identifying strong aspects and possible improvements to the programme but also to gain a deeper understanding of how observation and self-feedback mediate between the performance and self-reflection phases of SRL. The results reveal an increased appreciation for feedback from various sources, and of the reflection it enables, with students emphasizing seeking help from teachers and peers. Implications for designing collaborative and student-centred learning environments with observational strategies to promote SRL are included.

Student-Centered Learning Environment Based on Multimedia and Intelligent CAD Tutoring Systems

Student-Centered Learning Environment Based on Multimedia and Intelligent CAD Tutoring Systems